MV Tug Boat Rozi

MV Tug Boat Rozi, Cirkewwa Marine Park, Malta

Depth: 20 (avg), 34m (max)

Level: Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent

Overview:

MV Tug Boat Rozi is one of the two prominent wrecks in Cirkewwa, located on Malta’s northwest coast. After serving as a working tugboat in Grand Harbour, she was scuttled in 1992 to serve as both an attraction for submarine tours and an artificial reef for scuba divers. Today, Rozi stands as one of the most popular dive sites in Malta.

History & Background: 

• Service History: The MV Rozi, a 35-meter-long tugboat, was built in 1958 by Charles Hill & Sons Ltd in Bristol, England. Initially named Rossmore, she underwent several ownership and name changes before being acquired by Tug Malta in 1981 and renamed Rozi. She operated in Malta’s Grand Harbour until her decommissioning in 1992.
• Scuttling: In September 1992, the Rozi was intentionally sunk off Cirkewwa to serve as an artificial reef and attraction for submarine tours, which are no longer operational. Today, the wreck is a popular dive site.

Wreck Details: 

• Dimensions: The wreck measures approximately 35 meters in length and lies upright on a sandy seabed.
• Depth: The mast begins at a depth of around 20 meters, with the majority of the structure situated between 30 and 34 meters. 
• Position: The stern close to the reef and the bow facing the open sea.

Dive Highlights:

• Accessibility: Easily dived from the shore and located near the Patrol Boat P29 wreck, the Rozi is located about 130 meters from the nearest entry point
• Wreck Features: Divers can explore the wheelhouse, bridge, and main deck, all covered in marine growth. The propeller and rudder at the stern, along with the funnel and mast, provide great points of interest, often attracting schools of fish and larger species like barracudas. Dives to the Rozi can be combined with visits to the nearby Cirkewwa Arch for a varied underwater experience.
• Marine Life: The wreck has become an artificial reef, attracting damselfish, cardinalfish, and rainbow wrasse are commonly seen around the wreck, while moray eels, scorpionfish, and octopuses hide within its crevices. Cuttlefish and nudibranchs can often be found along the metal surfaces, and the propeller and mast are popular gathering spots for barracudas, groupers, and amberjacks. The sandy seabed surrounding the wreck is home to stingrays, flounders, and sea urchins, while patches of soft corals, red sponges, and fireworms add color to the structure. And in very special occasions, dolphins and sunfish!

Why Visit?

MV Tug Boat Rozi is a standout dive, having transformed into a lively marine habitat. Its accessible location and artificial reef make it a must-visit attraction for divers exploring the Maltese islands.